Senator Gallivan Responds to the Governor's State of the State Address

Senator Patrick M. Gallivan, (R-C, Elma) issued the following statement:

“As Governor Hochul delivered her annual State of the State Address, I was anxious to hear how she planned to tackle some of the most pressing issues facing New Yorkers, such as public safety, affordability, and the high cost of doing business here. 

While I am encouraged by her commitment to combat domestic violence, retail theft, and hate crimes, I am disappointed that she did not mention the dangerous changes made to our criminal justice system over the past several years. These so-called reforms continue to favor offenders over law-abiding citizens and have taken authority away from judges, allowing too many dangerous individuals back on our streets to commit more crimes. We need to correct this injustice if we truly want to keep New Yorkers safe.

I am also concerned that the governor offered few details on how to close the state’s looming budget deficit.  It is a critical issue that must be addressed without raising taxes or cutting vital services, which would only drive more people and business out of New York. 

Proposals to better protect consumers, improve mental health treatment, and deal with maternal and infant mortality are encouraging and I look forward to learning more about the governor’s plans in these areas. I am also anxious to review initiatives aimed at creating more affordable housing across the state, and the economic potential of artificial intelligence as an industry in New York.   

I am hopeful the governor’s upcoming budget proposal will provide specific details on how she plans to implement the programs she mentioned and how to address the critical issues not discussed today.  I am committed to working with the governor and my colleagues in the legislature to adopt policies and programs that are fiscally responsible and will improve the lives of all New Yorkers.” 

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